In our last article, we shared everything you need to know about preparing for your new dental implants. We know this is such an exciting time for you because you are finally on the path to regaining your beautiful smile. Dental implants are the perfect tooth replacement option for missing teeth.

So, we think it would be only right if we did the same thing, but this time let you know what to expect after your dental implant surgery. In this article, we’ll do just that. 

What to expect immediately after your dental implant procedure.

Dental implant surgery typically takes about one to two hours for each implant placed. Once the procedure is over, you might feel a mix of relief and excitement, but also some discomfort. It’s normal to experience swelling and mild pain around the implant site. 

The swelling and discomfort usually peak within the first 48 hours. You might notice some bruising as well, but these symptoms will gradually subside. During this time, it’s important to rest and avoid strenuous activities.

To manage pain and promote healing, your dentist will provide you with specific instructions. These may include taking prescribed pain medications or antibiotics, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and eating soft foods to avoid disturbing the implant site. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also extremely important, so follow the cleaning routine recommended by your dentist.

Adhering to the guidelines provided by your dentist at Orchard Dental Associates should be treated as a non-negotiable for an easy recovery. 

Long-Term Care and Maintenance 

Over time, the discomfort and swelling will subside, and we promise that before long, you’ll be able to enjoy your new smile. However, caring for your new dental implants is important to help you achieve that 90% to 95% success rate. 

The best rule of thumb here is to care for your dental implants just as you would your natural teeth. So, be sure to do the following:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping your implants clean is essential for preventing infections and maintaining overall oral health. Consistent and thorough oral hygiene practices are key.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the implants. Consider using an interdental brush to reach hard-to-access areas.
• Floss daily with implant-specific floss or a water flosser to remove plaque and food particles around the implant site.
• Schedule regular visits to your dentist for checkups and cleanings. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor the health of your implants and address any issues early on. Professional cleanings help remove plaque or tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss.

Adjust To Your New Smile

It’s not unusual for it to take a few weeks to get used to the feel of your new implants. While you’ll surely love your smile, you should allow some time to adapt. Here are some things you can do to make the process easier and prevent doing anything that might slow down your healing process.

Dietary Recommendations During the Healing Process

• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to avoid putting pressure on your implants.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the implant site or get lodged around the implant.

Gradual Return to Normal Eating Habits

• As your mouth heals, you can slowly reintroduce firmer foods. Start with easy-to-chew items like cooked vegetables and pasta.
• Gradually work your way back to a regular diet, but continue to avoid extremely hard or chewy foods that could damage your implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

In most cases, you’ll be feeling back to normal in one to two weeks after surgery for dental implants in Corpus Christi. However, be sure to continue following the instructions we provided you after your procedure. Doing so will help you realize the benefits of dental implants faster.

Here’s what you can expect.  

• Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth, and they’ll blend in with your smile. 
• Better comfort: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants become a permanent part of your mouth. This means no embarrassing or uncomfortable slippage when eating or speaking. 
• Better oral health: Dental implants don’t require altering nearby teeth, which helps maintain the long-term health of your natural teeth and supports overall oral health.
• Improved eating and chewing: With dental implants, you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worry, as they function like your natural teeth.
• Improved speech: Dental implants allow you to speak clearly and confidently without the worry of slurring words, which can happen with dentures if they become loose.
• Strong and long-lasting: With proper care, dental implants can last many years—a lifetime—they are a reliable and long-term solution for missing teeth.
• Restored self-esteem: A beautiful, complete smile can do wonders for your self-esteem, helping you feel better about your appearance and growing your confidence in social and professional settings.

Are you missing teeth? It’s time for dental implants.

Tooth loss in adults is more common than many people realize. In the U.S., adults between 20 and 64 have just 25.5 teeth remaining (down from 32 if you include wisdom teeth). But those gaps left behind from tooth loss aren’t necessarily good for oral health. Missing teeth can change the look of your face and increase your risk of bone loss and tooth decay.

That’s why talking to your dentist in Corpus Christi about the best restorative dentistry options for you is so important. So, stop searching online for the best dentist near me and request an appointment with Orchard Dental Associates. We’re here to answer all your questions about dental surgery and determine the best path forward for dental implants. 

Schedule your appointment today.